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Games Like Waves 2: Notorious

60+ similar titles based on shared tags and player behavior. Themes include Action, Bullet Hell, Arcade, Shooter.

Waves 2: Notorious header art

Waves 2: Notorious is an arcade twin-stick shooter set in Cyberspace. Build Combos, earn Adrenaline and unleash powerful Burst attacks as you Dive into the Net and do battle against an AI that adapts to your weaknesses!

Reviews: Very Positive — 93% — of 322 reviews
Released: 2015-12-16
Developer: Squid In A Box Ltd
Genres: Action, Early Access
Platforms: Windows, Linux
Median playtime: 30 min
Mean playtime: 20.3 hrs
Players ≥ 1 hr: 40%

Overview

Waves 2: Notorious is a high-octane twin-stick shooter that excels at combining arcade-style score chasing with intense bullet-hell mechanics and adaptive AI. These recommendations focus on games that prioritize fast-paced movement, combo-driven gameplay, and the addictive 'just one more run' loop found in the best arena and roguelike shooters.

Similar Games

View all 59 recommendations
  1. #1 Waves
    97% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 1,549 reviews2011
    Dev: Squid In A Box Ltd
    Windows
    Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 71%

    Waves is an Arcade Twin-Stick Shooter that's all about High Scores. Build your combo and drop bombs in pursuit of Leaderboard dominance over seven game-modes!

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 15.8%, Bullet Time 12.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 10.8%, Bullet Hell 10.6%, Cyberpunk 8.5%

    Why You'll Like It: As the direct predecessor, it offers the same core arcade twin-stick intensity and score-chasing focus.

  2. #2 Nova Drift
    96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 14,407 reviews2024
    Dev: ChimericPub: Pixeljam
    Windows · Mac
    Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 19.6 hrs≥1hr: 75%

    Nova Drift distills the mechanical depth and strategy of an ARPG into classic arcade space combat. Control an endlessly evolving bio-mechanical ship, face legions of strange and deadly foes, and ride the wake of a dying star across the void.

    Why similar: Arena Shooter 24.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 18.6%, Bullet Hell 17.5%, Action Roguelike 16.7%, Shooter 8.9%

    Why You'll Like It: An arcade-style space shooter that combines deep roguelike build customization with satisfying, high-speed combat.

  3. #3 Nex Machina
    96% matchVery Positive87% of 2,168 reviews2017
    Dev: Housemarque
    Windows
    Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 83%

    Nex Machina is an intense arcade style twin-stick shooter from Housemarque. Taking hints from both Robotron and Smash TV, Nex Machina focuses on pure action, voxel destruction and competition in the distant, cablepunk themed future.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 33.8%, Bullet Hell 17.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 12.1%, Cyberpunk 9.8%, Top-Down Shooter 7.8%

    Why You'll Like It: This is the gold standard for modern twin-stick arcade shooters, featuring incredible visual feedback and relentless action.

  4. #4 Assault Android Cactus+
    95% matchVery Positive94% of 2,000 reviews2015
    Dev: Witch Beam
    Windows · Mac · Linux
    Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 82%

    Assault Android Cactus is an intense arcade style twin stick shooter - pick from one of nine unique synthetic heroines and blast your way through overwhelming robots hordes to save the ship from its own workforce. Supports single player and local co-op game modes.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 29.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 19.7%, Bullet Hell 19.7%, Shooter 9.4%, Top-Down 8.6%

    Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced, combo-driven twin-stick shooter that captures the same frantic energy and arcade spirit.

  5. #5 Monolith
    94% matchMostly Positive77% of 335 reviews2023
    Dev: Animation Arts
    Windows · Linux

    A classical science fiction point and click adventure which takes you into a deep story and murky atmosphere, while solving logical puzzles. Accompany Tessa Carter and her talking robot as she finds out about herself and searches for a way to survive.

    Why You'll Like It: A top-down roguelike that perfectly blends tight twin-stick controls with complex, screen-filling bullet-hell patterns.

  6. #6 Chippy
    94% matchVery Positive91% of 1,169 reviews2019
    Dev: Facepunch Studios
    Windows
    Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 68%

    Chip destructible bosses apart pixel-by-pixel in this twin-stick bullet-hell shooter.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 17.6%, Arena Shooter 14.6%, Top-Down Shooter 11.8%, Bullet Hell 11.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 11.5%

    Why You'll Like It: An intense boss-rush bullet-hell game that focuses on destructible environments and high-difficulty encounters.

  7. #7 Rhythm Storm
    92% matchVery Positive94% of 81 reviews2025
    Dev: Radiangames
    Windows

    Rhythm Storm is a roguelike bullet heaven with stunning vector graphics, rhythmic action, and overwhelming swarms of enemies. Your vehicle aims and fires freely while everything else dances and moves to the beat in this spectacular audio-visual experience.

    Why similar: Arena Shooter 17%, Top-Down Shooter 13%, Bullet Hell 12.8%, Action Roguelike 11.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 11.3%

    Why You'll Like It: A unique bullet-hell game where the environment and enemies react to the music, creating a hypnotic combat loop.

  8. #8 Destropolis
    93% matchVery Positive87% of 287 reviews2020
    Dev: Igrek GamesPub: Games Incubator
    Windows
    Median: 36 minMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 45%

    Destropolis is a top-down shooter game with a fully destructible environment, hundreds of enemies and nuclear explosions. Fight a countless swarm of enemies. Tear them to pieces with bullets, lasers and explosions. Destroy as many of them as you can before they overwhelm you...

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 16.8%, Top-Down Shooter 12.4%, Bullet Time 11.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 11.7%, Bullet Hell 11.5%

    Why You'll Like It: A high-density arena shooter that focuses on clearing massive swarms of enemies in a destructible city.

  9. #9 Geometry Arena 2
    91% matchVery Positive89% of 429 reviews2026
    Dev: 011 Games
    Windows
    Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 70%

    Geometry Arena 2 distills RPG depth and Roguelite elements into a unique loop of [ Meta-Progression + Endless Challenges ]. Mix and match Weapons, Bodies, Modules, and Pets to craft your game-breaking builds! Minimalist lines, vibrant colors!

    Why similar: Arena Shooter 22.3%, Top-Down Shooter 17.5%, Action Roguelike 15.5%, Bullet Hell 15.1%, Abstract 7.9%

    Why You'll Like It: An arena-focused roguelike that offers deep customization and endless waves of enemies similar to the seed game.

  10. #10 SYNTHETIK 2
    91% matchVery Positive81% of 3,230 reviews2021
    Dev: Flow Fire Games
    Windows
    Median: 6.0 hrsMean: 19.5 hrs≥1hr: 86%

    SYNTHETIK 2 is a unrelenting tactical-shooter rogue-lite. Play alone or with friends. Loot powerful tech. Experience the next level in gun-play. Upgrade your androids to rival the machine gods!

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 31.5%, Top-Down Shooter 23.3%, Action Roguelike 18.6%, Top-Down 10.1%, Shooter 9.9%

    Why You'll Like It: A tactical, high-stakes twin-stick shooter that rewards precision and careful management of weapon systems.

  11. #11 HYPER DEMON
    90% matchVery Positive94% of 3,249 reviews2022
    Dev: Sorath
    Windows
    Median: 42 minMean: 11.4 hrs≥1hr: 41%

    HYPER DEMON is an FPS like no other. a pearl of lightning. a dream from the future. a drop of poison. a swan song. The faster you slay demons, the harder the game and the higher your score. There is an end. Will it see you?

    Why similar: Arena Shooter 24.2%, Bullet Time 17.5%, Bullet Hell 13.1%, Score Attack 10.5%, Psychedelic 10.3%

    Why You'll Like It: An extreme, high-speed arena shooter that pushes the limits of reaction time and arcade intensity.

  12. #12 Nuclear Throne
    88% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 19,420 reviews2015
    Dev: Vlambeer
    Windows · Mac · Linux
    Median: 5.2 hrsMean: 24.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%

    Nuclear Throne is a post-apocalyptic roguelike-like top-down shooter. Not 'the final hope of humanity' post-apocalyptic, but 'humanity is extinct and mutants and monsters now roam the world' post-apocalyptic. Can you reach the Nuclear Throne?

    Why similar: Action Roguelike 31.9%, Bullet Hell 22.3%, Top-Down Shooter 18.2%, Twin Stick Shooter 13.7%, Shooter 6%

    Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced twin-stick roguelike that emphasizes aggressive play and constant movement to survive.

  13. #13 Void Prison
    89% matchVery Positive80% of 95 reviews2022
    Dev: Lazy FlockPub: Untold Tales
    Windows

    Void Prison is a fast paced, endless arcade twin stick shooter that puts you inside of an ever shrinking ring. Survive by fighting emerging enemies around you and don't get consumed by the void. Complete achievements to unlock new skins and powerups and get on top of the leaderboards!

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 20.2%, Arena Shooter 16.1%, Bullet Hell 12.8%, Bullet Time 12.3%, Top-Down Shooter 10.2%

    Why You'll Like It: An arcade-style survival shooter that traps you in a shrinking arena, forcing constant movement and combat.

  14. #14 Beat Hazard 2
    87% matchVery Positive86% of 2,250 reviews2019
    Dev: Cold Beam Games
    Windows
    Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 70%

    Experience your music collection as never before with this intense music driven arcade shooter. Each of your songs will have its own unique ebb and flow based on the music.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 24.7%, Top-Down Shooter 15.9%, Bullet Hell 13.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 13%, Procedural Generation 10.8%

    Why You'll Like It: A music-synced arcade shooter that generates intensity based on your own library of tracks.

  15. #15 Time Wasters
    86% matchVery Positive88% of 2,590 reviews2023
    Dev: Proton Studio
    Windows
    Median: 7.2 hrsMean: 13.0 hrs≥1hr: 86%

    Time Wasters is a space shooter bullet heaven roguelite. Equip and upgrade weapons, destroy swarms of enemies, and collect Time & Space Cubes to bend the timeline to your advantage.

    Why similar: Arena Shooter 20.4%, Top-Down Shooter 16.6%, Bullet Hell 15.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.3%, Action Roguelike 14.7%

    Why You'll Like It: A space-themed roguelite shooter that focuses on rapid progression and clearing waves of enemies.

  16. #16 Bleed 2
    86% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 895 reviews2017
    Dev: Ian Campbell
    Windows · Mac · Linux
    Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 90%

    Bleed 2 is a relentless arcade action game featuring air-dodging, bullet-reflecting, and tons of bosses. Now with randomly-generated levels and daily challenges, too!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 32.2%, Bullet Hell 29%, Arcade 11.3%, Action Roguelike 11.1%, Procedural Generation 9.2%

    Why You'll Like It: A high-energy arcade action game that emphasizes stylish movement and boss-focused combat.

  17. #17 Go Mecha Ball
    85% matchVery Positive87% of 452 reviews2024
    Dev: Whale Peak GamesPub: Super Rare Originals
    Windows
    Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 54%

    Load up and roll out, in this twin stick shooter with roguelike progression! Blast your way through arcade-style levels, using pinball-style physics mixed with an arsenal of devastating weapons. Defeat waves of enemy bots, battle big bosses, and upgrade your mech between runs.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 19.1%, Arena Shooter 15.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.6%, Bullet Hell 11.5%, Action Roguelike 10.2%

    Why You'll Like It: An action-packed arcade shooter that blends pinball-like movement with twin-stick combat.

  18. #18 Gunlocked 2
    84% matchVery Positive88% of 64 reviews2025
    Dev: FromLefcourt
    Windows

    Movement is your weapon. A sci-fi action roguelike and shmup combined, in Gunlocked 2 you'll pilot and upgrade a state-of-the-art warship against endless waves of deadly aliens. Deep customization, branching paths, and tons of unlockables offer endless replayability!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 19.6%, Top-Down Shooter 17.7%, Action Roguelike 16.6%, Bullet Hell 15.2%, Shooter 9.1%

    Why You'll Like It: A roguelike shooter that emphasizes arcade sensibilities and strategic weapon management.

  19. #19 Akka Arrh
    84% matchVery Positive84% of 64 reviews2023
    Dev: Llamasoft Ltd.Pub: Atari
    Windows
    Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 4.1 hrs≥1hr: 87%

    Akka Arrh is a modern take on a scrapped project from the 1980s, providing players with a fast-paced, addictive, arcade shooter experience and psychedelic visuals. Protect your life rings as you chain together combos and go for a high score!

    Why similar: Top-Down Shooter 17.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 17.1%, Bullet Hell 16.2%, Abstract 10.1%, Shooter 8.2%

    Why You'll Like It: A trippy, modern take on classic arcade score-chasers with intense visual feedback and rapid-fire gameplay.

  20. #20 Enter the Gungeon
    83% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 88,241 reviews2016
    Dev: Dodge RollPub: Devolver Digital
    Windows · Linux
    Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 31.2 hrs≥1hr: 85%

    Enter the Gungeon is a bullet hell dungeon crawler following a band of misfits seeking to shoot, loot, dodge roll and table-flip their way to personal absolution by reaching the legendary Gungeon’s ultimate treasure: the gun that can kill the past.

    Why similar: Bullet Hell 44%, Action Roguelike 23.1%, Twin Stick Shooter 18.1%, Top-Down 5.2%, Shooter 5.1%

    Why You'll Like It: A classic twin-stick roguelike that features deep bullet-hell mechanics and a vast array of unique weapons.

  21. #21 Arcadium - Space Odyssey
    81% matchVery Positive94% of 108 reviews2026
    Dev: Luciano Bercini
    Windows · Mac

    Arcadium is a survival roguelite set in a dynamic, ever-changing universe. Journey across space, harvest planetary resources, and craft powerful builds to eradicate relentless waves of aliens. Each playthrough unveils a new and uncharted universe, ensuring endless challenges and discoveries.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 19.6%, Bullet Hell 16.6%, Action Roguelike 15%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.9%, Top-Down Shooter 11.3%

    Why You'll Like It: An arcade-style roguelite shooter that features retro aesthetics and challenging survival gameplay.

  22. #22 Tesla vs Lovecraft
    82% matchVery Positive90% of 1,231 reviews2018
    Dev: 10tons Ltd
    Windows · Mac · Linux
    Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 80%

    Tesla vs Lovecraft is an intense top-down twin stick arena shooter from the creators of Crimsonland and Neon Chrome. Play as the enigmatic inventor Nikola Tesla harnessing the static energy to power up Tesla-Mech and give the lovecraftian nightmares a lesson in horror!

    Why similar: Arena Shooter 27.4%, Top-Down Shooter 23.9%, Twin Stick Shooter 19.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 10.4%, Shooter 7.9%

    Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced twin-stick shooter that features chaotic combat and powerful weapon upgrades.

  23. #23 Mushihimesama
    82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,525 reviews2015
    Dev: CAVE Interactive CO.,LTD.Pub: KOMODO
    Windows
    Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 79%

    Battle huge "Koju" bugs in CAVE's beautiful fantasy shooter, Mushihimesama. Experience the thrill of bullet hell from the masters of the genre as you evade visually stunning shot patterns with thousands of bullets.

    Why similar: Bullet Hell 43.3%, Shoot 'Em Up 39.9%, Arcade 11.8%, Action 2.8%, Shooter 2.2%

    Why You'll Like It: A legendary bullet-hell shooter that provides the ultimate test of dodging and pattern memorization.

  24. #24 Neon Abyss
    81% matchVery Positive86% of 23,504 reviews2020
    Dev: Veewo GamesPub: Team17
    Windows
    Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 19.5 hrs≥1hr: 87%

    Neon Abyss is a frantic, roguelite action-platformer where you run ‘n’ gun your way into the Abyss. Featuring unlimited item synergies and a unique dungeon evolution system, each run diversifies the experience and every choice alters the ruleset.

    Why similar: Cyberpunk 23.2%, Bullet Hell 22%, Action Roguelike 19.9%, Procedural Generation 19.2%, Shooter 12.7%

    Why You'll Like It: An action-roguelike that combines platforming and twin-stick shooting with a vibrant, chaotic aesthetic.

  25. #25 Sektori
    77% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 704 reviews2025
    Dev: Kimmo LahtinenPub: Kimmo Factor Oy
    Windows
    Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 9.9 hrs≥1hr: 73%

    Sektori is an intense, fast paced twin-stick shooter infused with hard hitting techno music. A game where the high-adrenaline gameplay, visuals, and music come together to transport you into another state of consciousness.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 20.5%, Arena Shooter 15.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.7%, Top-Down Shooter 10.6%, Bullet Hell 10%

  26. #26 Devil Daggers
    79% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 9,293 reviews2016
    Dev: Sorath
    Windows · Mac · Linux
    Median: 42 minMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 43%

    Devil Daggers is a fast-paced shooter that places you in an abyssal arena to face endless legions of demons. Armed with versatile magic daggers and a fluid movement system, fight to survive as long as you can.

    Why similar: Arena Shooter 41%, Bullet Hell 27.3%, Shooter 17.6%, Arcade 8.2%, Action 5.9%

    Why You'll Like It: A pure, high-skill survival arena game that challenges you to last as long as possible against relentless demons.

  27. #27 Crimsonland
    80% matchVery Positive93% of 3,083 reviews2014
    Dev: 10tons Ltd
    Windows · Mac · Linux
    Median: 7.3 hrsMean: 11.5 hrs≥1hr: 93%

    Thousands of aliens, giant spiders, mutant lizards, and more are on the attack - can you survive the onslaught? Crimsonland is a top-down shooter with a touch of RPG. Unlock over 30 weapons and over 50 perks from quirky to brutal. Complete the quest and show your skills in five survival modes.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 28.9%, Top-Down Shooter 23.1%, Shooter 13.4%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.1%, Top-Down 12.2%

    Why You'll Like It: A classic top-down arena shooter that focuses on surviving against overwhelming hordes of monsters.

  28. #28 Alien Swarm: Reactive Drop
    78% matchVery Positive95% of 23,448 reviews2017
    Dev: Reactive Drop Team
    Windows
    Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 9.9 hrs≥1hr: 63%

    Co-operative top-down shooter game available for free. An epic bug hunt featuring a unique blend of co-op play and squad-level tactics.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 29.8%, Top-Down Shooter 20.7%, Hacking 19.4%, Procedural Generation 11.5%, Shooter 9.5%

    Why You'll Like It: A top-down shooter that offers intense, squad-based combat against swarms of alien enemies.

  29. #29 Ikaruga
    79% matchVery Positive95% of 2,307 reviews2014
    Dev: TREASURE
    Windows
    Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 65%

    Shoot! Dodge! and... Get Hit!? "Ikaruga" is a vertical shoot 'em up that features an unique polarity-switching gameplay. Switch the ship's polarity and "get hit and absorb" enemy bullets! Achieve High Score with the chain bonus!

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 43.2%, Bullet Hell 38.6%, Arcade 11.6%, Shooter 4.8%, Action 1.7%

    Why You'll Like It: An iconic bullet-hell shooter that introduces a unique polarity mechanic to navigate complex enemy fire.

  30. #30 Retrograde Arena
    78% matchVery Positive94% of 531 reviews2020
    Dev: FreemergencyPub: Neon Doctrine
    Windows
    Median: 30 minMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 40%

    Retrograde Arena is a multiplayer twin stick shooter where bullets don’t kill. Use weapons, physics, and your Drone to push, pull, and blast your foes into deadly surroundings in this skill-based shooter action title that redefines physics-based action.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 20.4%, Top-Down Shooter 14.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.7%, Bullet Hell 13.2%, Cyberpunk 11.3%

  31. #31 Antipaint
    76% matchVery Positive95% of 274 reviews2024
    Dev: Vilius Prakapas
    Windows

    An action-packed roguelite shooter where you battle famous works of art and each level you beat becomes a masterpiece to add to your colorful collection.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 17.5%, Arena Shooter 15.9%, Top-Down Shooter 12.3%, Bullet Hell 12.2%, Action Roguelike 11.5%

  32. #32 Neon Abyss 2
    75% matchMixed68% of 2,058 reviews2025
    Dev: Veewo Games
    Windows
    Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 12.4 hrs≥1hr: 84%

    Dive into the cybermyth roguelike chaos of Neon Abyss 2! Now featuring up to 4-player online co-op, more combat styles, and unlimited item synergies, every run delivers a dramatic, action-packed experience you won't forget.

    Why similar: Cyberpunk 24.2%, Action Roguelike 24%, Bullet Hell 21.4%, Procedural Generation 12.8%, Shooter 10.3%

  33. #33 Voidigo
    73% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 4,722 reviews2023
    Dev: semiwork
    Windows
    Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 8.4 hrs≥1hr: 64%

    A vividly animated action roguelite focused on boss hunting. Unleash an array of diverse weapons and powerups to combat the corruption of the Void.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 24.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 15.5%, Top-Down Shooter 15%, Action Roguelike 14.9%, Bullet Hell 14.5%

  34. #34 Danger Scavenger
    77% matchMostly Positive73% of 500 reviews2021
    Dev: Piotr WolkPub: Star Drifters
    Windows · Mac · Linux
    Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 3.5 hrs≥1hr: 82%

    Danger Scavenger is fast-paced action, cyberpunk-themed, roguelite skyline crawler. Blow up, cut, shoot enemy robots on the roofs of skyscrapers. Choose your way to higher levels, loot, buy stuff, upgrade yourself, fight against greedy corporations, be a rebel!

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 16%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.5%, Action Roguelike 11.6%, Top-Down Shooter 11.3%, Bullet Hell 10.1%

  35. #35 Fabric Of Reality
    75% matchVery Positive92% of 132 reviews2022
    Dev: _Jester_
    Windows

    In this game, you are the bullet hell. Face off against 100 waves of enemies and bosses by collecting a deck of attack cards that activate in real-time to unleash destruction upon everything in sight. There's an insane amount of customizability leading to an infinitely replayable experience.

    Why similar: Arena Shooter 21.3%, Top-Down Shooter 16.2%, Action Roguelike 15.3%, Bullet Hell 15.3%, Twin Stick Shooter 13.4%

  36. #36 Shape Shifter: Formations
    73% matchVery Positive91% of 267 reviews2025
    Dev: Castec Studios
    Windows

    Shape Shifter: Formations is an action twin-stick shooter with rogue-lite elements, where you must destroy hordes of geometric enemies alone or with a friend. Select your ship and combine a large variety of weapons, abilities and infinitely stacking upgrades to craft your own unique build.

    Why similar: Arena Shooter 20%, Twin Stick Shooter 19.3%, Bullet Hell 14.2%, Action Roguelike 14.2%, Top-Down Shooter 11.6%

  37. #37 Razerwire:Nanowars
    76% matchVery Positive86% of 109 reviews2018
    Dev: Hammer & Ravens
    Windows
    Median: 12 minMean: 1.8 hrs≥1hr: 32%

    A modern revisitation of the 80s arcades. Use your Razerwire to cut through waves of nanobugs with a rogue-like inspired progression.

    Why similar: Arena Shooter 22.4%, Bullet Time 19%, Shoot 'Em Up 16.6%, Bullet Hell 15.7%, Shooter 8.1%

  38. #38 Cyclo Chambers
    74% matchVery Positive84% of 135 reviews2023
    Dev: Hobofeller
    Windows

    Collect synergizing items to create an overpowered character to fight hordes of cyclops monsters. Cyclo Chambers is a fast-paced, top-down arena shooter with light rogue-like elements. 150 items to choose from to create frantic combinations. Different runs every time.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 22.7%, Arena Shooter 16.6%, Top-Down Shooter 14.3%, Bullet Hell 14.1%, Action Roguelike 13.7%

  39. #39 Cosmic Coliseum
    72% matchVery Positive93% of 59 reviews2025
    Dev: Exane GamesPub: Bad Blood Studios
    Windows

    Fight for your freedom as you battle through wave after wave of alien adversaries. Destroy enemy fighters and collect XP to raise your level and become more powerful. Combine your skills and abilities with a huge range of power-ups to become the ultimate champion.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 26.7%, Arena Shooter 21.5%, Top-Down Shooter 18.5%, Action Roguelike 17.2%, Shooter 7.5%

  40. #40 BULLETHELL
    73% matchVery Positive89% of 88 reviews2024
    Dev: Walter Machado
    Windows

    BULLETHELL is an experimental, retro-hardcore, barely playable, ultra-fast-paced arena top-down shooter.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 43.6%, Cyberpunk 31.4%, Bullet Hell 14.1%, Arena Shooter 5.6%, Action 3.5%

  41. #41 Esse Proxy
    74% matchMostly Positive74% of 140 reviews2022
    Dev: FromSouthGames
    Windows

    Slick, stylish and brutal, 3D Cyberpunk Shooter. Located in a dystopian future, you'll experience the intertwined stories of three different characters, each with their own abilities, playstyles, strengths and weaknesses. Kill or die, learn and repeat before you unveil the secrets of Esse Proxy.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 22.8%, Top-Down Shooter 15.5%, Bullet Time 15.1%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.3%, Bullet Hell 13.6%

  42. #42 Neon Striker
    72% matchVery Positive89% of 81 reviews2025
    Dev: Zeno's Adventure Team
    Windows · Mac · Linux

    Configure the weaponry on your ship to blast away enemies as you navigate through swarms of bullets and space battles. Each ship has unique customization options and playstyles.

    Why similar: Top-Down Shooter 22.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 22.2%, Bullet Hell 21.4%, Action Roguelike 21.3%, Shooter 9.8%

  43. #43 Undercroft Warriors
    71% matchMostly Positive79% of 459 reviews2024
    Dev: Fuzzy
    Windows

    Crush the forces of hell and get a high score in this addictive, action-packed, arcade-inspired twin-stick shooter!

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 23.8%, Top-Down Shooter 17%, Shoot 'Em Up 16.4%, Bullet Hell 14.6%, Shooter 7.2%

  44. #44 SYNTHETIK: Arena
    71% matchVery Positive90% of 2,336 reviews2019
    Dev: Flow Fire Games
    Windows
    Median: 54 minMean: 3.5 hrs≥1hr: 46%

    Face the varied challenges of the Machine God Zir in ARENA, a standalone expansion for Synthetik: Legion Rising! Leverage the next level in gun-play and experiment with powerful tech in varied action packed Arenas!

    Why similar: Top-Down Shooter 53.5%, Shooter 12.4%, Multiplayer 11.4%, Action 8.2%, Top-Down 7.5%

  45. #45 PewPew Live
    70% matchVery Positive93% of 76 reviews2022
    Dev: Jean-François Geyelin
    Windows

    A fast twin-stick shooter where you compete for the top spot in the leaderboards.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 26.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 16.7%, Bullet Hell 15.8%, Abstract 10.2%, Shooter 8.1%

  46. #46 Phoenix 2
    70% matchMixed67% of 211 reviews2025
    Dev: Firi Games
    Windows

    A fast-paced shoot 'em up where skill matters. Master over 100 ships, unleash powerful special abilities, and blast through waves of Invaders. Play a new mission every day and climb the world-wide leaderboards.

    Why similar: Shoot 'Em Up 19.9%, Bullet Hell 17.7%, Top-Down Shooter 16.9%, Procedural Generation 11.4%, Score Attack 9.5%

  47. #47 Geometry Arena
    68% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,401 reviews2021
    Dev: 011 Games
    Windows · Mac
    Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 13.8 hrs≥1hr: 78%

    A free-form arena-shooter Roguelite with heavy emphasis on building an overpowered character! You play as a little shape that shoots other shapes! Strengthen your character by mixing and matching mods and upgrades, and experiment with a limitless rune upgrade system!

    Why similar: Arena Shooter 23.3%, Top-Down Shooter 17.1%, Action Roguelike 16.3%, Bullet Hell 14.6%, Score Attack 9.3%

  48. #48 Symmodance
    70% matchVery Positive84% of 75 reviews2023
    Dev: Mehmet Melih Solt
    Windows

    Dive into the symphonic chaos of geometric warfare! Unleash futuristic weaponry, customize your hovering platform, conquer relentless foes and dance to victory in this mesmerizing reverse bullet hell shooter.

    Why similar: Top-Down Shooter 17.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 17.4%, Bullet Hell 16.6%, Action Roguelike 16%, Cyberpunk 13.1%

  49. #49 Void Resurgence
    67% matchVery Positive95% of 62 reviews2025
    Dev: Puza Games
    Windows · Mac

    Command a starship in Void Resurgence, a retro-futuristic space roguelite. Battle through colorful cosmic fields, collect upgrades, and build your ultimate ship. Dodge intense bullet-hell patterns and fight for survival. Every run offers new challenges and permanent progress.

    Why similar: Arena Shooter 16.6%, Top-Down Shooter 15.7%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.1%, Action Roguelike 14.1%, Bullet Hell 13.5%

  50. #50 Null Vector
    69% matchVery Positive96% of 268 reviews2018
    Dev: Optical Override
    Windows
    Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 12.8 hrs≥1hr: 52%

    Trade. Gamble. Fight! Test your arcade chops in Null Vector, a twin-stick shooter rogue-lite. Discover and experiment with thousands of weapon combinations, take strategic advantage of machines to trade and gamble for new ship parts, and unleash your own bullet hell upon the Final Boss!

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 24.9%, Shoot 'Em Up 17%, Bullet Hell 15.8%, Action Roguelike 14.7%, Procedural Generation 10.1%

  51. #51 Combat Complex
    68% matchMostly Positive77% of 51 reviews2024
    Dev: Spherical Horse Studios
    Windows

    A fast-paced ARPG / roguelike hybrid with lasers, alien bugs, WASD / twin-stick controls, random loot, and procedurally-generated levels. Wield legendary weapons, unlock devastating skills, create overpowered builds – and turn your enemies' attacks against them. Try the free demo!

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 21.1%, Top-Down Shooter 15.5%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.8%, Action Roguelike 13.1%, Bullet Hell 13%

  52. #52 Neon Sundown
    68% matchVery Positive82% of 447 reviews2022
    Dev: Ben NicholsPub: BN Games
    Windows · Mac
    Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 61%

    Neon Sundown is an extremely challenging arena-shooter that mixes fast-paced action with roguelite elements. Take on increasingly difficult arenas as you unlock new ships, upgrades, synergies, and more! Think you have what it takes to survive?

    Why similar: Arena Shooter 26.6%, Top-Down Shooter 20.2%, Action Roguelike 15.9%, Cyberpunk 10.1%, Arcade 7.5%

  53. #53 BloodDome99
    66% matchVery Positive96% of 96 reviews2024
    Dev: Halftone Gaming
    Windows · Mac

    BloodDome99 is a game about nostalgia, capitalism, violence, and over-the-top absurdist fun. 80s arcade meets modern horde-survival roguelike. Create unique builds, master more than 40 weapons, and kill ever-growing hordes of contestants in the retro-futuristic gladiator gameshow BLOODDOME99

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 17.8%, Bullet Hell 13.7%, Top-Down Shooter 13.4%, Action Roguelike 13.1%, Arena Shooter 10.9%

  54. #54 Repetendium
    67% matchVery Positive90% of 294 reviews2022
    Dev: Bearlex Games
    Windows
    Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 3.5 hrs≥1hr: 78%

    Repetendium is a top-down roguelike-lite shooter. Select from a rowdy group of characters to play as and wield an ever expanding variety of gear and items to conquer the underworld. Death awaits...

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 22.5%, Bullet Hell 17.9%, Top-Down Shooter 17.8%, Action Roguelike 17.7%, Arena Shooter 9.2%

  55. #55 UBERMOSH:BLACK
    69% matchVery Positive88% of 1,225 reviews2016
    Dev: Walter Machado
    Windows · Linux
    Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 6.9 hrs≥1hr: 71%

    UBERMOSH:BLACK is the second volume of the arcade series UBERMOSH. Cut bullets with your sword, shoot with heavy guns and splatter enemies with a rage fueled psionic wave.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 21.6%, Bullet Hell 17%, Top-Down Shooter 15.1%, Cyberpunk 14.5%, Action Roguelike 14.2%

  56. #56 Danmaku Unlimited 2
    69% matchVery Positive93% of 481 reviews2014
    Dev: Doragon Entertainment
    Windows
    Median: 42 minMean: 10.9 hrs≥1hr: 44%

    Classic Japanese style vertical manic shooting action! Shoot, dodge and explode your way through the second entry in the critically acclaimed Danmaku Unlimited series. Battle through nail-biting bullet patterns and compete for dominance on the global leaderboard!

    Why similar: Bullet Hell 43.8%, Shoot 'Em Up 40.4%, Arcade 6.6%, Shooter 5.8%, Action 3.4%

  57. #57 Berzerk: Recharged
    67% matchMixed63% of 57 reviews2023
    Dev: SneakyBoxPub: Atari
    Windows · Mac · Linux
    Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 3.2 hrs≥1hr: 78%

    Blast your way through an endless maze inhabited by deadly robots and their invulnerable, menacing master Evil Otto. Tag in a friend in local co-op to help you survive this twin-stick revival of an arcade classic.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 19.4%, Top-Down Shooter 14%, Shoot 'Em Up 13.6%, Bullet Hell 12.7%, Action Roguelike 11.9%

  58. #58 Cosmic Carnage: Prologue
    65% matchVery Positive93% of 69 reviews2023
    Dev: LionSwordPub: LionSword Studios
    Windows · Mac · Linux

    Prepare for an interstellar showdown like no other in a gripping roguelike top-down twin-stick shooter set in the vast depths of space. Pilot your advanced starship, engaging in relentless battles against hordes of alien adversaries. Destroy, Collect, Upgrade, Die, Unlock, Repeat.

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 21.1%, Top-Down Shooter 15.2%, Shoot 'Em Up 14.8%, Bullet Hell 13.9%, Action Roguelike 13.1%

  59. #59 Drones, The Human Condition
    71% matchMostly Negative38% of 356 reviews2016
    Dev: Blunt GamesPub: ninjainatux
    Windows · Linux
    Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 16.6 hrs≥1hr: 68%

    An addictive fast paced twin stick arena shooter with banging electronic sound track, nostalgic nods and a barrage of flashing lights and bullets. Your task is simple, kill drones, free humans, don't die!

    Why similar: Twin Stick Shooter 18.4%, Arena Shooter 15%, Shoot 'Em Up 12.8%, Top-Down Shooter 12.4%, Bullet Hell 10.7%

Waves 2: Notorious cover art

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